Most Common Lung Conditions Among Seniors

Over 14 percent of all seniors will be diagnosed with some type of lung ailment, many of whom will require Sydney East in-home care to manage it. As the population continues to age, this number will likely rise. There are many different types of lung diseases that seniors may be diagnosed with and the treatment is different for each one. 

Bronchial Asthma

There are over six different types of asthma, but the most common one among seniors is bronchial asthma. This is where the airway becomes hyper-reactive due to environmental stimuli. This disease is often undiagnosed in seniors, but can be easily treated with medications such as steroids.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

COPD is a term that doctors use to cover a variety of lung ailments including chronic bronchitis, refractory asthma, emphysema and bronchiectasis. When a senior has COPD, they often experience tightness in their chests, shortness of breath, wheezing and coughing. 

Community-Acquired Pneumonia

The bacterial infection community-acquired pneumonia often causes seniors to have shortness of breath, high fevers and persistent coughs. Getting a pneumonia shot can often help prevent this disease, which can often be treated with antibiotics.

Pulmonary Embolism

Seniors who experience intense pain and shortness of breath may be experiencing a pulmonary embolism. The reason for the pain is a blood clot in the lungs. These blood clots often start out in the legs before traveling to the lungs where they become lodged.

Sleep-Disordered Breathing

Sleep apnea often accompanies sleep-disordered breathing, although this disease covers a whole spectrum of diseases. Many seniors benefit from allergy treatments while others may need a sleeping machine. Live-in Sydney East caregivers will need to consult their loved ones’ doctors to verify the best course of treatment.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer often starts with no symptoms, so it is often well developed before it is caught. This disease kills almost 158,000 people in America each year. When caught early, chemotherapy and radiation treatments are often highly successful.

It is important that you encourage your senior to see their doctor on a regular basis. Working with their primary care physician, seniors often receive great treatment for lung diseases. You can also turn to Home Care Assistance for help looking after your loved one. While we cannot treat your loved one’s medical condition, our highly trained stroke, dementia and Alzheimer’s caregivers in Sydney East can promote wellbeing by offering companionship and assistance around the home. Call (02) 9158 3880 today to schedule a complimentary consultation with an experienced Care Manager.